I’ve been enjoying Spike Lee films for the better part of my adulthood–following his films long enough to appreciate all the nuances that go along with his brand of filmmaking. One of the more controversial directors of the 20th (and 21st ) century, Spike Lee is known for serving up a diverse recipe of elements in his movies. Hitting many different aspects of human nature, his movies (also known as “joints”) have become a prevalent part of African American pop culture (and entertainment in general.) If you’ve seen more than three of Spike Lee’s films, you’ve probably developed a distinct opinion of his work. Lee has directed/produced over twenty films, some more popular than others. But it seems that within his collection of movies, there’s something for everyone.
She’s Gotta Have It (1986)
You are more than likely a true Spike Lee fan if you’re familiar with this film. Shown mostly in “noir-style” black and white, the racy theme of She’s Gotta Have It captured a mature audience. It was one of the first movies to address contemporary black sexuality.
Malcolm X (1992)
When the biographical film about Malcolm X was released in 1992, there were both jeers and cheers. Some took offense to Lee’s creative portrayal of the charismatic leader. Others were thrilled that a director had the courage to bring Malcolm’s story to the big screen. In any case, if you were a huge fan of this movie you are probably drawn to big historical films-especially those that make a political statement of some sort.
Jungle Fever (1991)
For some, whenever the name Spike Lee is mentioned, images of Wesley Snipes and Annabella Sciorra will come immediately to mind. This is because 1991 brought some of the taboo aspects of interracial relationships to the forefront. But providing multiple storylines to keep the momentum going is what separated this film from others that dwelled solely on “black and white” issues. If this is your personal film favorite, you can probably identify with the plight of urban professionals in modern society.
Summer of Sam (1999)
Surprising everyone by totally shifting gears, Spike Lee took an opportunity to explore one of the darker aspects of human culture-serial killers. But where other directors would pore over every detail of the infamous 1970’s murders, Lee incorporates his celebrated shtick-glamming up a dreadful true story with both intrigue and sex appeal. A motley mix of both indie and horror film lovers will have this movie in their film collection.
Clockers (1995)
Richard Price, screenwriter for HBO’s “The Wire” tapped Spike Lee to help him bring his novel “Clockers”, to life. The movie, like many others that Lee directed, also takes place in Brooklyn. But this time, the action centers on murder and drug dealing-with a few wisecracking detectives thrown in for good measure. Clockers is the slick, hip-hop loving urbanite’s dream.
25th Hour (2002)
This Spike Lee film was actually an interpretation of the novel “The 25th Hour”, written by David Benihoff. Although the movie barely registered a squeak in the entertainment world, the interesting mish-mash of images and emotions reeked of Spike’s colorful nuances. This movie is likely to have attracted newer Spike Lee fans, or those who like intelligent crime dramas.
He Got Game (1998)
While Hollywood was besieged with science fiction blockbusters and sappy romantic comedies, Spike Lee was cranking out yet another imaginative urban “joint.” He Got Game was filled with both gratuitous eye candy and quite a few underlying emotional messages. Utilizing Boston Celtics guard Ray Allen in the lead role, it would be no surprise that this movie is a hit with male 30-something basketball fans.
Girl 6 (1996)
In 1996, Spike Lee presented an urban film for the ladies. Considered just a blip on the film world’s radar, Girl 6 covered the personal tribulations of a phone sex operator portrayed by Theresa Randle. A few of the messages concerning black women in the entertainment industry were probably missed. But with a sumptuous soundtrack composed entirely of Prince songs, that probably isn’t too hard to believe.
Crooklyn (1994)
Lee touched upon several different aspects of African American family life in this film, released in 1994. Centering on a loving black family in 1970’s Brooklyn, Crooklyn hit on many different emotional notes. The tone and presentation of this oft-forgotten film will probably hit home with black “baby boomers.”
Do the Right Thing (1989)
Although more than twenty years have passed since this movie hit the big screen, it is perhaps one of Spike Lee’s most memorable works. Do the Right Thing and its iconic cast is practically one of the first authentic representations of the hip-hop culture. A delicious mix of rap music, violence, and sensuality against a steamy Brooklyn backdrop is just a “crust on the pizza pie.” Clearly, this film is a Generation X pop culture favorite. But its appeal will probably last many decades more.
SOURCES:
www.netflix.com
www.amazon.com
www.imdb.com
